Loading The Cannon: Gavin Brindley

When Michigan's Gavin Brindley was chosen by the CBJ at #34 in 2023, people who follow NHL prospects were surprised he was still available at 34. He was expected to go late first, possibly even early second at the latest, and that's exactly where he went. 

The Jackets, who drafted forward Adam Fantilli third overall, decided to draft one of Fantilli's best friends. Brindley is not only thought of to be a great friend to Fantilli but one who is considered to have an excellent NHL future as well. He's projected by many to be a middle-6 forward. 

Elite Prospects said about Brindley in their draft guide: 

Brindley is a high-motor player who excels on the defensive side of the puck. He’s a tenacious forechecker and reliable in defensive zone coverage. He’s always in motion, always attacking lanes, bouncing around defenders to find them, especially on the power play. He anticipates plays ahead of time and moves to support them.

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Brindley played 81 games at the University of Michigan. He scored 37 goals and had a total of 81 points in two seasons with the Wolverines. 

Some of his accomplishments at Michigan are as follows:

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After his second season at the U of M, Brindley decided to turn pro. He signed his ELC on April 15th and made his professional debut against the Carolina Hurricanes in the last game of the season. He played 12:20 in that game and didn't register any points. 

Brindley also has some international experience. He's played for the U.S. on the World Junior U18 team, twice on the U20 squad, and this summer played on the World Championship team. He played in 5 games and scored one goal playing alongside teammates Zach Werenski and Johnny Gaudreau.

Gavin Brindley will no doubt come to camp in September and try to challenge for a spot on the big roster. Many people think that he'll end up in Cleveland however, but that's not a bad thing, the AHL is a great development league and he could help them get back to the Eastern Conference Finals.  

Brindley along with Trey Fix-Wolansky, Luca Del Bel Belluz, and Jake Christiansen could make a lot of noise up on Lake Erie. After taking some time to get his feet wet for the Monsters, Brindley could easily lead the team in goals or points, he's that good. 

Get ready for the Gavin Brindley experience, it could be a fun one. 

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